Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a condition that causes you to move your legs constantly. While this condition is often attributed to neurological disorders or iron deficiencies, restless leg syndrome can also be related to vein disease.
What Is Restless Leg Syndrome?
Specifically, restless leg syndrome is a brain, nerve or vein-related condition where uncomfortable sensations cause you to move your legs constantly. These sensations are more common when sitting or lying down, usually at night. Moving helps temporarily relieve the discomfort, which is why you are unable to stay still for longer periods.
The sensations someone may experience can look different for everyone. Some common restless leg syndrome symptoms include:
- Crawling
- Itching
- Burning
- Throbbing
- Aching
- Pulling
What Causes RLS?
Experts are still learning more about what causes RLS, but it may relate to the basal ganglia in the brain — the part of the body that causes movements. If your brain does not get enough dopamine, the basal ganglia can not effectively regulate movement. An iron deficiency, genetics and certain medications can also play a role.
Underlying medical conditions or vein diseases — such as varicose veins — share many of the same symptoms as RLS, especially when it comes to uncomfortable feelings in the legs. If you have varicose veins and are experiencing RLS symptoms, treating one may help influence the other.
Understanding Restless Legs and Vein Disease
As we previously mentioned, RLS and varicose veins share many of the same symptoms. Varicose veins happen when blood pools in the veins of your legs and is unable to pump back up to the heart. The buildup of blood in your veins can cause aching, throbbing and pulling in the legs — symptoms common with RLS.
Treatment Options for Restless Legs
United Vein & Vascular Centers can help you find treatment solutions to relieve these uncomfortable sensations. We will first meet with you for a consultation to better understand your condition and if varicose vein treatments could help you manage your symptoms.
- Phlebectomy: A phlebectomy is a minimally invasive aesthetic procedure that physically removes the damaged veins through small punctures. Because the incisions are so small, there is no need for stitches or long recovery times.
- Radiofrequency ablation: Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a technological advancement that is replacing traditional vein stripping. This minimally invasive procedure inserts a radiofrequency energy catheter into the damaged vein, causing it to close and seal shut.
- Sclerotherapy: Sclerotherapy uses a very small needle to inject a pharmaceutical agent into a problematic vein. The agent then causes the vein to seal shut and redirect blood to a healthier route.
- VenaSeal: VenaSeal is a newer development in varicose vein treatment. It uses an FDA-approved glue substance to shut damaged veins — no heat is required.
Request a Consultation Today
United Vein and Vascular Centers is a leading provider of comprehensive vein and vascular care with over 45 clinics across Arizona, Chicago, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Texas, and expanding. Our mission is to revolutionize vascular care by delivering an all-inclusive clinic experience that addresses every aspect of lower extremity vein and vascular conditions.
Reach out today for further details, or to schedule a consultation.
